5 Reasons Your Water Heater May Be Working Harder This Summer

When most people think about water heater problems, they think about winter.

After all, who isn't taking long, hot showers when it's freezing cold outside, right?!

But here's something many homeowners don't realize: your water heater may actually be working harder during the summer months than you think.

It sounds crazy, we know! But let's look at five reasons your water heater may be putting in some extra work.

1. The Kids Are Home

During the school year, your house may sit empty for several hours each day. But once summer break arrives, suddenly everyone's home.

That means more showers, more handwashing, more dishes, and more laundry. All of that activity requires hot water, which means your water heater is cycling more frequently to keep up with demand.

Even if you don't notice a dramatic increase in your utility bills, trust us when we tell you that your water heater certainly notices the extra workload!

2. Summer Activities Create More Laundry

Trips to the pool. Weekends at the lake. Summer camps. Backyard adventures.

Summer is big on joy. But let’s be honest, there’s no joy in the mountains of laundry all that joy generates. 

Wet towels, swimsuits, athletic clothing, and outfit changes can lead to more frequent loads than you run during other times of the year. And unless you're washing everything in cold water, your water heater could be working overtime behind the scenes.

3. You Have More Guests Visiting

Summer is prime time for visitors.

Whether it's family stopping by for a weekend, friends visiting from out of town, or grandchildren spending a few days with you, extra people typically mean extra hot water usage.

Additional showers, dishwashing, laundry, and handwashing can all put added demand on your water heater. If you've noticed your hot water running out faster than usual, summer guests could be part of the reason.

4. Sediment Buildup Doesn't Take a Summer Break

Even if your water usage stays the same, sediment can make your water heater work harder.

Over time, minerals naturally found in water settle to the bottom of the tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the burner or heating element and the water itself, making the system less efficient.

The result? Your water heater has to work longer and harder to produce the same amount of hot water.

Routine maintenance, including periodic flushing, can help remove sediment and keep your water heater operating efficiently.

5. Your Water Heater May Simply Be Aging

Like any appliance, water heaters become less efficient as they get older.

If your unit is approaching 10 years of age or more, it may be working harder to keep up with your household's needs than it did when it was new.

Some signs your water heater may be struggling include:

• Running out of hot water more quickly

• Unusual noises

• Rust-colored water

• Water around the base of the tank

• Fluctuating water temperatures

Addressing these warning signs early may help you avoid an unexpected breakdown.

Support Your Water Heater This Summer

Everyone and everything deserves a little extra support from time to time. Yes, this includes your appliances. And a few simple maintenance steps can help keep your hot water system running smoothly all summer long!

Start by checking around the unit periodically for signs of leaks or moisture. It's also a good idea to pay attention to any unusual popping, rumbling, or banging sounds, as these can indicate sediment buildup inside the tank. 

Also, if your water heater hasn't been serviced in a while, consider scheduling it for routine maintenance. And if your unit is getting up there in age, a professional inspection may help determine if ongoing preventative maintenance or a replacement would better serve your household. 

Final Thoughts

So as you can see, it’s true! Your water heater works hard all year long—even during the summer.

Don't hesitate to contact G.T. Campbell Plumbing no matter what signals your water heater is giving you. We'll arrange for a technician to visit at a time that suits your summer schedule!

From inspecting your entire hot water system, to identifying and addressing any issues promptly, you’ll be able to rest assured that you'll never be left without hot water when you need it most.